The torchlighting ceremony for the event occurs April 13, marking 100 days till the beginning of the Games in Abbotsford.

“The torchlighting ceremony is really a rallying cry for the community,” said Abbotsford 2016 BC Summer Games president Steve Carlton.

“We’re going to light the ceremonial torch at city hall and it’s a chance for all the team to come together with the public and bring awareness to the Games for the community.”

The ceremony kicks off at 7 p.m. at the Matsqui Auditorium, with the torchlighting taking place at 8:30 p.m. at Thunderbird Plaza.

The public is invited to attend both events. But due to limited indoor seating, officials are recommending locals contact the Games office for seating availability inside the auditorium.

Speeches and local entertainment will occur at both events.

Once the flame is lit outside Thunderbird Plaza, it will remain illuminated until the conclusion of the Games in July.

Carlton said volunteer numbers for the Games are encouraging, but more are needed.

“We’re very pleased with the progress of our recruitment for volunteers,” he said. “We’ve received a really good response from the community, and already over 20 per cent of the volunteers have been assigned to a role. Typically, that doesn’t happen till much later. We’re now making the push for the next 2,000 volunteers.

The Games run from July 21 to 24 in various locations across Abbotsford. For more information on the event, visit bcgames.org.